A ‘Bonus’ Mountain Lion

Published on December 7, 2024
Duration: 52:05

This episode features Sean Skipper of Loophold Optics discussing a recent mountain lion hunt in Wyoming, which began unexpectedly after a bison hunt. The conversation delves into the challenges of tracking in snow, the use of hounds, and the final moments of the hunt. Skipper also shares insights on new optics development, the importance of reticle design for hunting, and the multi-platform uses of red dot sights like the DeltaPoint Pro, particularly for dangerous game and defensive shotgun applications.

Quick Summary

Sean Skipper of Loophold Optics recounts a thrilling Wyoming mountain lion hunt initiated after a bison hunt. The chase involved navigating snowy terrain with hounds, culminating in a successful shot with a .44 Magnum lever-action rifle. Skipper also teased new optic developments from Loophold, emphasizing the importance of reticle design for various hunting scenarios.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction with Sean Skipper
  2. 00:41Sean Skipper from Loophold Optics Joins the Show
  3. 02:34Optic Mounting and Accuracy Discussion
  4. 04:39Recounting a Mountain Lion Hunt
  5. 07:38New Optics Development Tease
  6. 08:53Bison Hunt near Devil's Tower
  7. 09:32Unexpected Mountain Lion Hunt Opportunity
  8. 10:16Mountain Lion Prep Class and DIY Boot Treads
  9. 11:05The Hound Pack and the Chase Begins
  10. 13:11Cat Jumps Quickly; Found Eating a Fawn
  11. 13:36Chaos of the Mountain Lion Chase
  12. 15:00The Cat Trees; A Tense Standoff
  13. 15:51The Final Moments: Taking the Shot
  14. 18:11The Mountain Lion Falls; Recovery
  15. 19:35Reflections on the Hunt's Success
  16. 20:04Break and Sponsor Segments
  17. 26:37Back with Sean Skipper: Mountain Lion Hunt Recap
  18. 27:05The Bison Hunt in Wyoming
  19. 29:00Caliber and Ammunition for Bison
  20. 31:12Bison Hunting Tactics and Shot Distances
  21. 33:48Future Hunting Plans
  22. 34:39Optic Reticle Preferences
  23. 39:36Leupold Fire Dot Twilight Hunter Reticle
  24. 41:47Multi-Platform Uses of DeltaPoint Pro
  25. 45:15Mounting Systems for Red Dots on Hunting Rifles
  26. 46:11Red Dots for Hog Hunting
  27. 48:49Dangerous Encounters in the Wild
  28. 49:48Alaska Draw Hunts and Species Overview
  29. 51:32Final Thoughts and Wrap-up

Frequently Asked Questions

What caliber rifle was used for the mountain lion hunt?

The mountain lion hunt was conducted using a .44 Magnum lever-action rifle equipped with iron sights. The 240-grain bullet from this caliber proved effective in the engagement.

What are the key considerations for choosing a rifle optic reticle?

Choosing a reticle depends on the application. Thinner reticles are ideal for precision and long-range shooting, while thicker reticles offer better visibility in low-light hunting conditions or for shooters with visual impairments.

How can a red dot sight be used on a hunting rifle?

Red dot sights like the Leupold DeltaPoint Pro can be mounted on hunting rifles via 45-degree offset or ring-top mounts. This provides a quick aiming solution for close-range encounters, especially in dense cover or when facing dangerous game.

What are the challenges of mountain lion hunting with hounds?

Mountain lion hunting with hounds, especially in snowy conditions, involves tracking, navigating difficult terrain, and managing the dogs. The chase can be chaotic, particularly if the cat has recently fed and is trying to evade capture.

What new optics are Loophold Optics developing?

Loophold Optics is developing a new scope featuring an aluminum tube, an erector for magnification, and adjustment knobs. This new optic is designed, machined, and assembled in their Oregon factory and is slated for an early 2025 launch.

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